Southern Iceland Faces Hazardous Driving Conditions Due to Powerful Winds: What Travellers Need to Know

Published on December 7, 2025

Southern Iceland, known for its dramatic landscapes and natural beauty, is currently experiencing severe weather, which may pose significant challenges to visitors. The Icelandic Met Office has issued warnings for strong easterly winds sweeping across the region today. The worst of the conditions are expected to affect areas beneath the Eyjafjallajökull volcano and the Öræfi region. Travellers should be aware of the dangers associated with these strong winds, which can make driving dangerous and reduce visibility on the road.

Strong Winds Across Key Regions

Today, travelers in southern Iceland are advised to exercise extreme caution due to gusty winds expected to reach up to 35 metres per second in some areas. The strongest conditions are forecasted to occur in regions around Eyjafjallajökull, a famous volcanic site, and the Öræfi area. These locations, known for their dramatic topography, are particularly vulnerable to strong winds, which can be exacerbated by narrow valleys and exposed roads that funnel the wind, creating dangerous gusts.

While such wind speeds are not uncommon in Icelandic winters, they pose a serious threat, especially to larger vehicles or those with higher profiles. For vehicles of this nature, maintaining control in these conditions can become difficult. Authorities are urging travelers to take extra precautions and avoid travelling in affected areas whenever possible.

Reduced Visibility and Dangerous Road Conditions

The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (IRCA) has issued a travel warning urging drivers to be aware of the reduced visibility and potentially hazardous travel conditions. It is expected that wind gusts will not only make it difficult for vehicles to remain stable but also reduce visibility on the roads, making navigation even more challenging. Low visibility is particularly concerning in areas where snow or ice accumulations have already made the roads slippery, increasing the risk of accidents.

The gusty winds are predicted to affect a wide stretch of southern Iceland’s roads, including the routes that run beneath the towering Eyjafjallajökull volcano. As the wind gusts funnel through narrow passes, the risk of sudden and extreme wind conditions becomes even more significant. Travelers should be prepared for these challenges and should consider altering their travel plans to avoid driving during the worst of the weather.

Recommendations from Authorities: Stay Informed and Be Prepared

The Icelandic authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and they are advising drivers to check updated forecasts before embarking on any journeys in southern Iceland. Those planning to visit the region today should consult the official weather warnings issued by the Icelandic Met Office and the IRCA. The severity of the weather conditions means that roads may become impassable or unsafe for certain types of vehicles, particularly in areas that are subject to the most extreme gusts.

Travelers are encouraged to consider postponing or delaying any trips through the affected areas until the winds subside. Officials have reported that the winds are expected to gradually ease later in the day, but caution should remain in place as conditions can change rapidly. It is crucial to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly for those who are unfamiliar with the unpredictable nature of Iceland’s weather systems.

Preparing for Iceland’s Harsh Weather: Key Tips for Safety

Iceland’s unique landscape is known for its raw beauty, but this same landscape can quickly turn dangerous when faced with extreme weather conditions. To ensure safety while travelling in the country, particularly during periods of inclement weather, here are some essential tips:

1. Check the Weather Regularly: Always consult the latest weather reports from the Icelandic Met Office before heading out. Winds and weather conditions in Iceland can change unexpectedly, so staying informed is crucial.
2. Avoid Travel During Severe Conditions: If the weather reports indicate high winds, reduced visibility, or hazardous road conditions, it’s best to postpone your trip until conditions improve. Avoid driving during peak wind speeds.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition and equipped for winter driving. In Iceland, winter tyres are essential, and your vehicle should be prepared for icy and snowy conditions.
4. Travel in Groups or with a Guide: If you are unfamiliar with Iceland’s rural roads and weather conditions, consider travelling with a guide or in a group. Local knowledge can be invaluable when navigating difficult weather conditions.
5. Be Ready to Alter Your Plans: Flexibility is key when travelling in Iceland during winter months. The weather can change rapidly, and it’s important to have alternative plans in place in case road closures or dangerous conditions impact your itinerary.

What Travellers Should Know About Iceland’s Road and Coastal Systems

The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (IRCA) plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of travelers on the country’s roadways. They provide real-time updates on road conditions and closures, which can be accessed through their website. The IRCA’s warnings and reports are invaluable for those planning to drive in Iceland, particularly in remote regions where weather conditions can become extreme with little notice.

The administration’s role extends beyond simply providing weather updates; they also ensure that the infrastructure is resilient enough to handle severe weather. This includes maintaining roads, bridges, and tunnels, which are vital for both locals and tourists. However, travelers should remember that even with state-of-the-art infrastructure, Iceland’s weather can still pose serious risks, especially during winter months.

Stay Safe and Plan Ahead

While southern Iceland’s dramatic beauty is a huge draw for tourists, the weather can quickly turn dangerous, especially when high winds and poor visibility combine. Travellers should take these conditions seriously and make informed decisions about their routes and schedules.

Travellers can navigate Iceland’s southern region more safely by staying up to date on weather forecasts, making adjustments to travel plans as needed, and following safety guidelines. Those who prioritise safety and plan ahead of time will be able to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of this one-of-a-kind region of the world without jeopardising their health. The Icelandic Met Office and the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration provide official updates on travel safety and weather conditions in Iceland.